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Occupational Qualification · B10

Discretionary Grant · Upcoming

Beauty Practitioner

QCTO Aligned Audit-ReadySERVICES SETA
NQF Level
NQF Level 4
Credits
112
Duration
—
SAQA ID
121627
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Official QCTO Registry Profile

Source: SAQA / QCTO registry
SAQA ID
121627
Min Credits
112
Registered
2024-01-30
Re-registration
2029-01-30
Field
Field 11 - Services
Sub-field
Personal Care

Sample Asset Preview

Curriculum Alignment MatrixCRN ZA-SDP-2026-089
Curriculum Alignment Matrix — page 1
Curriculum Alignment Matrix — page 2
Curriculum Alignment Matrix — page 3
Curriculum Alignment Matrix — page 4
Curriculum Alignment Matrix — page 5
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Overview & Scope

Programme Profile

Target Designation
Certified Beauty Practitioner Practitioner
Competency Focus
Master specialised practical applications, safety criteria, and regulatory mandates required of a qualified Beauty Practitioner.
Academic Weight
Full national recognition at NQF Level 4 yielding 112 credits upon successful PoE verification.
Work Opportunities
Deployment across As a qualified beauty practitioner, you can find employment opportunities in Business Services, Cleaning, Security, Real Estate. Your skills will be in demand across both public and private sectors, and you may also choose to work as an independent contractor or start your own business in this field. operations under SERVICES SETA scope.
Audit Objective
Bridges operational skills deficits under the governing SERVICES SETA quality matrix.
Value Proposition
Measurable, legally compliant skills that optimise productivity, satisfy Workplace Skills Plans (WSP), and unlock B-BBEE scorecard weight.
Introduction▾

Designed as a Occupational Certificate at NQF Level 4 worth 112 credits, the Beauty Practitioner equips you with both theoretical understanding and hands-on capabilities. You will learn to perform complex tasks, solve real-world problems, and adapt to the demands of a dynamic work environment. This qualification is your stepping stone to becoming a confident, capable professional.

Purpose▾

The purpose of this part qualification is to prepare a learner to function as a Beauty Practitioner. A Beauty Practitioner applies complete skin treatments excluding a massage treatment to improve a person's appearance and self-esteem. A qualified learner will be able to: • Apply make-up and advise a client on make-up application techniques to clients. • Apply and advise and provide lash and brow treatment to clients. • Apply and advise and provide a manual skin care treatment to clients. • Apply and advise and provide a finger and toenails treatment to clients. • Apply and advise and provide an unwanted body and facial hair removal treatment to clients. • Set up and run a sustainable salon. • Apply and uphold Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) provisions in the salon. A qualified learner will demonstrate the following key attributes: • Customer Care. • Communication • Professionalism. • Reliability. • Ethical.

Entry Requirements▾

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL): • RPL for Access to Training: Learners may use the RPL process to gain access to training opportunities for a programme of learning, qualification, part-qualification, or skills programme if they do not meet the formal, minimum entry requirements for admission. RPL assessment provides an alternative access route into a programme of learning, qualification, part-qualification, or skills programme. Such an RPL assessment may be developed, moderated, and conducted by the accredited Skills Development Provider which offers that specific qualification/part qualification/skills programme. Such an assessment must ensure that the learner is able to display the equivalent level of competencies required for access, based on the NQF level descriptors. For exemption from modules through RPL, learners who have gained the stipulated competencies of the modules of a programme of learning, qualification, part-qualification, or skills programme through any means of formal, informal or non-formal learning and/or work experience, may be awarded credits towards relevant modules, and gaps identified for training, which is then concluded. • RPL for Access to the External Integrated Summative Assessment (EISA): Learners who have gained the stipulated competencies of the modules of a programme of learning, qualification, part-qualification, or skills programme through any means of formal, informal or non-formal learning and/or work experience, may be awarded credits towards relevant modules, and gaps identified for training, which is then concluded. A valid Statement of Results is required for admission to the EISA in which confirmation of achievement is provided that all internal assessment criteria for all modules in the related curriculum document have been achieved. For a Skills Programme, the accredited Skills Development Provider (SDP) must ensure all modular competency requirements are met prior to the FISA and keep record of such evidence. Upon successful completion of the EISA/FISA, RPL learners will be issued with the QCTO certificate for the qualification, part-qualification, or skills programme. Quality Partners are responsible for ensuring the RPL mechanism and process for qualifications and part-qualification is approved by the QCTO. Entry Requirements: The minimum entry requirement for this part qualification is: • NQF Level 3 qualification with Mathematical Literacy.

SAQA Rationale▾

The demand for Beauty Practitioners is consistently on the rise in the beauty and cosmetology industry. It holds industry recognition as it directly aligns with employment opportunities. These skilled professionals offer a wide range of services, including manual skincare, temporary hair removal, eye grooming, makeup application, and nail grooming. In the twenty-first century, the skills offered by Beauty Practitioners are in high demand within the beauty and cosmetology sector, reflecting the ever-increasing need for the expertise. There are no similar qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework. This part qualification offers a structured framework for learners to cultivate essential competencies in manual skincare, temporary hair removal, eye grooming, makeup application, and nail grooming, all of which are vital in the Beauty and Cosmetology industry. Successful completion of this part-qualification not only equips learners with these skills but also opens doors to various job opportunities within the Beauty and Cosmetology industry. Additionally, qualified learners may choose to establish their own businesses, thereby contributing to the communities' economy. Beauty Practitioners play a pivotal role in enhancing the self-image of individuals, resulting in a more positive outlook and improved performance in both the job market and society. The beauty and cosmetology sector stand to gain significantly from the skilled Beauty Practitioners capable of meeting the diverse needs of clientele. Competent Beauty Practitioners have the potential to establish a strong local presence, characterised by service excellence. This part qualification places a strong emphasis on nurturing a culture of professionalism and service excellence within the Beauty and Cosmetology industry. The global beauty landscape is currently experiencing a transformative shift, reflecting the evolving awareness of beauty consumers' needs and desires. The beauty and cosmetology industries are in a phase of growth and development, driven by factors such as the rise of local beauty brands, the economic activity of the current generation, and the influence of digital technology and connectivity. Notably, the increasing impact of blogging and social media influencers is playing a significant role in shaping these industries. The typical learners are the school leavers, unemployed persons, employed and self-employed persons. This part qualification was developed in consultation with the relevant Professional Body in the Beauty and Cosmetology industry to secure the competency requirements expected by the industry. Typical occupations in which the qualifying learner will operate (if relevant) include Beauty Practice, Manual Skin Care Therapy, Eye Grooming Therapy, Makeup Consultancy, Nail Therapy, Temporary Hair Removal Therapy. Learners qualifying in this part qualification may become Beauty Practitioners, provide cosmetic advice in retail outlets, become Salon Managers or Entrepreneurs. There is collaboration with the following relevant stakeholders: TVET Colleges, Private Training Providers in the Beauty and Cosmetology Industry and Practising Beauty Therapists. Typical professions in which the qualifying learner will operate include Advance Aesthetic Therapist, Beauty Technologist, Nail Technician, Beauty Therapist and Somatologist.

Learning Assumed to be in Place & RPL▾

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL): • RPL for Access to Training: Learners may use the RPL process to gain access to training opportunities for a programme of learning, qualification, part-qualification, or skills programme if they do not meet the formal, minimum entry requirements for admission. RPL assessment provides an alternative access route into a programme of learning, qualification, part-qualification, or skills programme. Such an RPL assessment may be developed, moderated, and conducted by the accredited Skills Development Provider which offers that specific qualification/part qualification/skills programme. Such an assessment must ensure that the learner is able to display the equivalent level of competencies required for access, based on the NQF level descriptors. For exemption from modules through RPL, learners who have gained the stipulated competencies of the modules of a programme of learning, qualification, part-qualification, or skills programme through any means of formal, informal or non-formal learning and/or work experience, may be awarded credits towards relevant modules, and gaps identified for training, which is then concluded. • RPL for Access to the External Integrated Summative Assessment (EISA): Learners who have gained the stipulated competencies of the modules of a programme of learning, qualification, part-qualification, or skills programme through any means of formal, informal or non-formal learning and/or work experience, may be awarded credits towards relevant modules, and gaps identified for training, which is then concluded. A valid Statement of Results is required for admission to the EISA in which confirmation of achievement is provided that all internal assessment criteria for all modules in the related curriculum document have been achieved. For a Skills Programme, the accredited Skills Development Provider (SDP) must ensure all modular competency requirements are met prior to the FISA and keep record of such evidence. Upon successful completion of the EISA/FISA, RPL learners will be issued with the QCTO certificate for the qualification, part-qualification, or skills programme. Quality Partners are responsible for ensuring the RPL mechanism and process for qualifications and part-qualification is approved by the QCTO. Entry Requirements: The minimum entry requirement for this part qualification is: • NQF Level 3 qualification with Mathematical Literacy.

Exit Level Outcomes▾
  • Perform a manual skincare treatment in a professional and ethical manner in accordance with occupational standards.
  • Provide an eye grooming service in a professional and ethical manner in accordance with occupational standards.
  • Provide a make-up service (day or evening or bridal) in a professional and ethical manner in accordance with occupational standards.
  • Provide a nail grooming service in a professional and ethical manner in accordance with occupational standards,
  • Provide a temporary hair removal service in a professional and ethical manner in accordance with occupational standards.
  • Establish and manage a sustainable and compliant enterprise in the beauty and cosmetology industry.
  • Apply integumentary system and human anatomy as applicable to the specific area under treatment.
  • Apply cosmetic chemistry as applicable to beauty therapy treatment.

Learning Material Included

  • Learner Guide (Theory and Knowledge Modules)
  • Facilitator Guide
  • Workplace Logbook
  • Formative and Summative Assessment
  • Assessor Guide & Marking Memorandum
  • SETA / QCTO Alignment Matrix
  • Administrative & Onboarding Pack
  • Implementation Plan

Moderator-Ready Curriculum Breakdown

15 modules · 112 credits

Theory, regulatory and safety knowledge. Each row carries the registered module code, NQF level and credit weight used for formative assessment rubric mapping.

  • 514201-001-00-KM-015 cr

    Cosmetic Chemistry

    NQF Level 4

  • 514201-001-00-KM-0210 cr

    Professionalism and Business Principles

    NQF Level 4

  • 514201-001-00-KM-037 cr

    Setting up a Salon Business Plan

    NQF Level 4

  • 514201-001-00-KM-045 cr

    Integumentary System

    NQF Level 4

  • 514201-001-00-KM-055 cr

    Human Anatomy

    NQF Level 4

Sub-total credits32
QCTO & SERVICES SETA AlignedSAQA 121627

Qualification 121627 · Curriculum Architecture

Occupational Certificate: Beauty Practitioner · NQF Level 4 (112 Credits)

Filter View
§ 01

Three Curriculum Pillars

32
Credits

Knowledge Modules

Classroom & E-Learning

KM-01 to KM-05 · 5 modules
  • Facilitated lectures & self-study
  • Written question banks
  • Formative comprehension checks
60
Credits

Practical Skill Modules

Simulated Line Tasks

PM-01 to PM-05 · 5 modules
  • Simulated line tasks
  • Observation rubrics
  • Structured task sheets
20
Credits

Work Experience Modules

On-the-Job Production

WM-01 to WM-05 · 5 modules
  • On-the-job rotation
  • Mentor logbooks
  • Workplace sign-offs
§ 02

Evidence & Audit Pipeline

Learner Portfolio of Evidence (PoE)
Owner · Candidate
▾
1
Admin & Registration

ID, learner contract, induction pack, POPIA consent.

2
Knowledge Evidence

Written assessments & question banks — KM-01 to KM-07.

3
Practical Evidence

Task sheets, observation rubrics, assessor photos.

4
Workplace Evidence

Logbooks, mentor sign-offs, supervisor letters.

Assessor Master File
Owner · Registered Assessor
▾
5
Assessment Reports

Judgements, learner feedback, remediation agreements, appeals log.

Internal Moderation & Quality File
Owner · Moderator / SDP
▾
6
Moderation Evidence

10% sampling matrix, HACCP/LOTO compliance sheets, SDP sign-off.

§ 03

Final Accreditation Gateway

Step 1
Statement of Results

Issued by the accredited Skills Development Provider once internal moderation is signed off.

Step 2
EISA Readiness Declaration

Provider submits declaration + PoE to the Assessment Quality Partner (AQP).

Step 3
National Qualification Certificate

QCTO awards the SAQA-registered certificate on successful EISA outcome.

Learner Certified · Uploaded to National Learner Records Database (NLRD)

Audit & Compliance

Evidence & Audit Pipeline

From portfolio assembly to external sign-off — the exact route your evidence travels.

  1. Step 1

    PoE Assembly

    Learner evidence, formative records and logbook entries filed against the alignment matrix.

  2. Step 2

    Internal Assessment

    Registered assessor judges each KM/PM/WM outcome using the supplied instruments.

  3. Step 3

    Internal Moderation

    Sampling and verification of assessor decisions, with remediation loop before submission.

  4. Step 4

    External Moderation

    SETA/QCTO desktop audit and certification upload against registered credits.

Broken Standard vs i2Graduates Standard

The measurable delta between improvised material and an audit-ready suite.

Broken Standard

i2Graduates Standard

Curriculum Mapping

Photocopied guides with mismatched outcomes

5 KM + 5 PM + 5 WM modules mapped to NQF Level 4

Assessment Bank

Missing formative and summative assessments

Pre-validated assessment bank per module

Alignment Evidence

No alignment matrix — audit fails

SERVICES SETA alignment matrix included

Facilitation

Facilitators improvise Beauty Practitioner delivery

Facilitator scripts + learner activities per credit

Portfolio of Evidence

PoE gaps flagged in moderation

PoE templates that survive external moderation

View on SAQA

Pricing & Delivery Tiers

Base licence from R55 600

Digital Master Suite

Editable master files, licensed to your SDP

  • Learner Guide, Facilitator Guide & Assessment Suite
  • Workplace logbook + alignment matrix (editable)
  • Instant digital delivery under institutional licence
  • Free minor corrections for 12 months
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Most selected

Turnkey Print & Bound Package

Printed, bound and couriered per learner

  • Everything in the Digital Master Suite
  • Full-colour print, wire-bound learner packs
  • Per-learner PoE folders and dividers
  • Nationwide courier with tracked delivery
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Full Enterprise Accreditation Bundle

Assets plus accreditation support end-to-end

  • Everything in the Print & Bound Package
  • Bespoke QMS build mapped to your scope
  • Moderation dry-run + written remediation report
  • Brand & metadata integration across the suite
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Complementary Services

Optional add-ons that harden your accreditation scope before an external audit.

Bespoke QMS Build

We author your Quality Management System — policies, procedures, records, matrices — mapped to your accreditation scope. From R18,500.

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Moderation Consultation

External moderation dry-run on your PoE + delivery pack. Written report with fixes before your real audit. From R4,900.

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The i2Graduates Quality Guarantee

Every page of this bundle is checked for sequence and structural accuracy — no missing pages, no shortcuts. You get pre-validated assessment instruments ready to survive rigorous compliance moderation, wrapped in a curriculum your facilitators will enjoy teaching.